Here at Pearson Fuels, we know how overwhelming it can be for clients to find the perfect fuel for the needs of their property. After all, there are four different varieties of coal but only two of them can be used safely and efficiently for residential burning. In addition to this, many people incorrectly believe that coal and charcoal can be used interchangeably! Luckily, the team here at Pearson Fuels are on hand to set the record straight. Read on as we go over the differences…

How is coal and charcoal made?

In layman’s terms, coal is a naturally formed mineral that was created over millions of years during a process known as coalification. As a result, it a non-renewable fuel source because it is impossible to create more once our supply is diminished. On the other hand, charcoal is a man-made fuel that can be created by burning carbon-based wood incredibly slowly. In fact, charcoal is made up of carbonic compounds which means that water and other substances are removed in order to create it.

What are the applications of coal and charcoal?

For many years, coal has been used in order to generate energy and heat a property. In fact, it is thought to be the most popular fuel on the market. Contrastingly, charcoal is often used outdoors during BBQ grilling in order to give meat is the signature grill flavour that we know and love. This happens when the drippings fall onto the briquettes and vaporise in the smoke. With this said, there is a lot of debate regarding the safety of indoor charcoal use due to the high levels carbon monoxide it creates.

Is coal and charcoal a cost-effective investment?

Many people assume that coal is popular due to its efficiency, however bituminous coal and anthracite offer homeowners two different burning experiences. After all, anthracite is the oldest form of coal, contains more carbon and provides a hotter and cleaner fire output whereas bituminous coal is more cost-effective and easier to light and stoke. With this said, charcoal is said to produce an even more energy efficient fire which burns hotter and longer than coal ever could.

Although carbon monoxide can be created during the incomplete combustion of coal, it is released in high levels when charcoal is burned. As a result, ventilation is an incredibly important component of residential burning. In fact, many homeowners choose to reserve charcoal for outdoor combustion only. To find out more information about the differences between coal and charcoal, get in contact with the best coal merchants on the market and speak to a member of the Pearson Fuels team today!